FMGE vs NExT: Key Differences Every Medical Student Should Know

Are you planning to study MBBS abroad or currently pursuing your medical degree outside India? Then you’ve likely heard about the FMGE exam and the newly introduced NExT exam by the National Medical Commission (NMC). It is important to know the difference between FMGE and NExT since it will impact your future medical career in India.

In this blog, we are going to discuss the differences, purpose, eligibility, syllabus, and what each exam means for foreign medical graduates (FMGs) and Indian medical students.

What is FMGE?

FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) is a licensing exam conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) for Indian students who have graduated from a foreign medical college.

Highlights of FMGE:

Purpose: To qualify for a provisional or permanent medical license in India by passing the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination).
Eligibility: Only for Foreign medical graduates
Conducting Body: National Board of Examinations (NBE)
FMGE is conducted twice a year June and December
Pass Percentage: 50% (The medical graduates need to score at least 150 out of 300)
Syllabus: The FMGE syllabus is based on the MBBS curriculum followed in India
Format: Objective, MCQ-based, and it is a computer-based exam

What is NExT?

NExT (National Exit Test) is a comprehensive exit-cum-licensing exam introduced by the National Medical Commission (NMC), aimed at standardizing the final year MBBS assessment. In the coming future, NExT will serve as a single licensure and PG entrance exam.

Highlights of NExT:

Purpose: Final year MBBS exam, licensing exam, and PG entrance exam all in one
Eligibility: Applicable to both Indian MBBS students and foreign medical graduates
Conducting Body: NMC (to be conducted by AIIMS or another authorized institute)
Frequency: Once a year (as per latest updates)
Pass Percentage: 50%
Structure: Exam will be conducted in two parts, NExT 1 (theory) and NExT 2 (clinical/practical)

What Will Replace FMGE?

The NExT exam will replace FMGE completely in the near future. According to NMC guidelines, FMGE will be conducted until NExT becomes fully operational for foreign students. Once implemented, foreign medical graduates will have to appear for NExT (just like Indian MBBS students) to:

Qualify for an internship in India
Get a medical license
Apply for PG (MD/MS) seats

Who Will Take NExT?

Indian MBBS students: As a final year exit exam + PG entrance
Foreign medical graduates: As a licensing and internship eligibility exam
There will be no separate FMGE once NExT is in full force

When Will NExT Replace FMGE?

As of now, FMGE is still being conducted. The implementation of NExT is expected by 2025 or 2026, based on official notifications and pilot studies. Students studying MBBS abroad should follow NMC’s Gazette and updates on NExT implementation carefully.

Tips for MBBS Abroad Students

Choose NMC-approved medical colleges abroad
Keep checking updates from NMC India, especially for the NExT schedule
Prepare for NExT-style clinical and conceptual questions early on
Ensure your foreign college offers adequate clinical exposure and English-medium instruction

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is FMGE being replaced by NExT?

Yes, FMGE will be replaced by NExT once the system is fully implemented by the NMC.

Can Indian MBBS students take FMGE?

No. FMGE is only for students who have completed MBBS abroad.

Will NExT be tougher than FMGE?

NExT is expected to be more comprehensive as it tests clinical skills (NExT 2) in addition to theoretical knowledge.

When is NExT expected to start?

The NMC has indicated that NExT may be implemented by 2025 or 2026, depending on pilot runs and regulatory readiness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the difference between FMGE and NExT is not just the structure; it also states the shift in how India assesses its future doctors. However, the FMGE is only for foreign medical graduates. NExT brings all MBBS students under one umbrella for licensing and postgraduate admissions.

If you’re planning to study MBBS abroad, make sure to stay informed and prepare early for NExT, the future of medical licensing in India.